Interesting Times with Ross Douthat
New York Times Opinion
The first draft of our future. Mapping the new world order through interviews and conversations. Every Thursday, from New York Times Opinion.
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Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. You can also subscribe via your favorite podcast app here https://www.nytimes.com/activate-access/audio?source=podcatcher. For more podcasts and narrated articles, download The New York Times app at nytimes.com/app.
Episodes
Mentioned books
60 snips
Dec 18, 2025 • 1h 8min
Will It Ever Be Cool to Be Conservative?
Ross Douthat, an opinion columnist known for his cultural insights, dives deep into the cultural landscape of conservatism in modern media. He discusses the right's rising influence in pop culture, exemplified by Sidney Sweeney's fashion moment. The conversation also touches on the implications of technological fragmentation, how conservative celebrities navigate their identities, and the paradox of political ambiguity in Hollywood. Douthat explores whether a stable coalition among right-leaning artists can emerge, reflecting on the broader implications for art and society.
116 snips
Dec 11, 2025 • 1h 9min
Is Anything Holding MAGA Together?
Andrew Colvett, a leader at Turning Point USA and former associate of Charlie Kirk, shares insights on navigating the conservative landscape post-Kirk's assassination. He discusses the challenges of unity within the movement amidst conspiracy theories, reflecting on Charlie's influence in bridging divides. Colvett highlights key issues like immigration and faith, emphasizing the need for a kinder conservatism and the ongoing impact of Charlie's legacy on the future of conservative politics.
71 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 1h 18min
The Shifting Politics of Transgender Rights
Chase Strangio, a prominent transgender rights lawyer with the ACLU, joins to delve into the current state of transgender rights in America. They discuss the implications of high-profile legal cases like Bostock v. Clayton County and United States v. Skrmetti on workplace protections and healthcare for transgender youth. Strangio shares insights on defining gender identity and the complexities surrounding sports participation, advocating for nuanced approaches over blanket bans. The conversation also touches on activism's evolution and the impact of public opinion.
10 snips
Apr 6, 2025 • 3min
Introducing ‘Interesting Times’
This podcast dives into the complexities of our rapidly changing world. It tackles the implications of the Trump presidency and the COVID-19 pandemic on our societal fabric. Listeners will explore the future of democracy as American influence shifts. The conversation also ventures into how culture—movies and books—will evolve in an era dominated by digital technology and AI. Each discussion promises thought-provoking insights into our current and future realities.
